William Eichler 11 February 2025

Report reveals SEND ‘blind spots’

Report reveals SEND ‘blind spots’ image
Image: Ermolaev Alexander / Shutterstock.com.

Research into the provision of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support in England has highlighted ‘inequalities’ and ‘blind spots.’

The report by the Education Policy Institute (EPI) found that pupils in academies and those from disadvantaged backgrounds are less likely to receive necessary support.

EPI researchers suggested this might be due to under-identification, fewer SEND pupils enrolling in academies, or academies meeting needs without formal identification.

It might also be the result of delays in education, health and care plan (EHCP) assessments due to reduced local authority capacity.

The study also found councils had a limited impact on SEND identification, accounting for just 4% of the variation in the use of primary EHCPs, and 2% in secondary EHCPs, which entitle children to specific individual support.

Responding to the report, Cllr Arooj Shah, chair of the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Children and Young People Board, said it was ‘vital’ Government sets out its plans for reform of the SEND system in the upcoming Spending Review.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Repairs Co-Ordinator

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Be the heart of our community - help us keep homes safe, warm and well-maintained.At the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC), we believe th England, London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Museums Operations Manager

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Band F, SCP26 - 31 (£36,124 - £40,476) per annum
Sandwell Museums is looking for an experienced and motivated Operations Manager Sandwell, West Midlands
Recuriter: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Regulation and Compliance Assistant - WMF2056e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£31,067 - £31,586 pro rata
This is an exciting opportunity for you to join the Licensing Team within Westmorland and Furness Council Penrith, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Community Finance Officer - WMF2059e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£33,366 - £34,314
You will be working in a busy operational finance service Barrow in Furness, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Apprentice Teaching Assistant

Durham County Council
£7.55 per hour
Apprentice Teaching Assistants Temporary – 15 month Apprenticeship Contact Full Time – term time only plus 2 weeks £7.55 per hour Start Date
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner